Terrarium

Terrariums are unique decorative gardens that add beauty to the indoor landscape. A great easy care garden that is ideal for people that travel or those of us that forget to water our houseplants!

What is a terrarium?

A seal-able glass container in which plants are grown. Any clear container can be used as a terrarium the only requirement is that it is watertight. When choosing a container, pick one that is large enough to accommodate the plants you want and has a cover, lid, or door to keep the moisture from escaping. If you find a container that doesn’t have a lid you can cover it with plastic wrap.

Terrariums are unique little ecosystems that recycle their moisture. Moisture from both the soil and plants evaporates, water vapour condenses on the walls of the container and falls back to the plants and soil below. The clear walls of the containers allow heat and light to enter and the constant supply of moisture prevents plants from becoming dry.

Many different plants will do well in a terrarium. Pick plants that will fit the size of the container, slower growing plants won’t need as much maintenance as more aggressive spreading plants. You can have fun picking, maintaining and even changing your plantings.

Materials:

Glass container (enclosed)

Small rocks or coarse sand

Activated charcoal

Potting soil

Plants

Decorations (optional)

Steps for building and planting:

Place a 1.25cm (½inch) layer of small rocks or coarse gravel in the bottom. This allows for drainage.

Add a layer of activated charcoal on top. This filters the air and keeps it fresh.

Add a layer of sphagnum moss on top of the charcoal. This creates a layer and prevents the soil from settling into the drainage layers.

Add a layer of potting soil - the depth of this layer is dependent on the size of the plants and the size of the terrarium.